By Abiola Olawale
In a stunning turn of events, Donald Trump made a remarkable return to the political arena by winning the 2024 presidential election in the United States.
In the highly anticipated showdown, Trump, a former President of the US, emerged victorious over Vice President Kamala Harris to reclaim the nation’s highest office.
With Trump weeks away to returning to the White House, the New Diplomat analyzes policies he may implement in his first few days in office.
This is based on his campaign manifesto and declarations.
1) Massive Deportation of undocumented migrants
During his campaign, Trump promised the largest mass deportation of undocumented migrants in US history. He also said he would finish building the border wall with Mexico that started during his first term.
2) Actions on economy, tax & tariffs
Trump has promised to “end inflation,” which rose under President Joe Biden but has since decreased.
He also promised major tax cuts, expanding on his 2017 plan. He also says he wants to make tips tax-free, eliminate the tax on social security payments, and reduce the corporate tax rate.
Additionally, he proposes new tariffs of at least 10% on most foreign goods to lower trade deficit. He mentioned that imports from China could face an extra 60% tariff.
3) Cut climate regulations
During his first presidency, Trump rolled back numerous environmental protections and withdrew the U.S. from the Paris climate agreement. This time, he has vowed to cut regulations to support the American car industry while attacking electric vehicles and seeking to overturn Biden’s targets. He plans to boost fossil fuel production.
4) End the Ukraine war
Trump has criticized the billions of dollars the US has spent supporting Ukraine in its war with Russia. He claims he could end the conflict in “24 hours” through a negotiation.
Trump wants the US to reduce its involvement in foreign conflicts. Regarding the war in Gaza, he supports Israel but has urged it to stop its military operations. He also promised to help end related violence in Lebanon, though he did not provide details.
5) No Ban On Abortion
During the presidential debate with Kamala Harris, Donald Trump asserted, despite the preferences of some of his supporters, that he would not endorse a national abortion ban.
In 2022, the Supreme Court, which was comprised of a majority of conservative justices appointed during Trump’s initial term, overturned the nationwide constitutional right to abortion.
Trump has consistently expressed the view that states should have the autonomy to determine their abortion laws.
6) Pardon some January 6 rioters in Capitol Hill
Trump said he would “free” some of those Americans convicted for the January 6 Capitol riot, which he downplays and labels as political prisoners, claiming many are “wrongfully imprisoned.”
7) Sack Special Counsel Jack Smith
Trump plans to fire Special Counsel Jack Smith, who is investigating him for attempts to overturn the 2020 election as well as alleged mishandling of classified documents. Trump denies wrongdoing and claims it’s a “political witch hunt.”
Conclusion
With few weeks away, it is clear that the second coming of Trump will also come with surprises and policy shocks.?He would also make history as the first US president with a criminal conviction.
